Trapping protects certain endangered or threatened species from predatory furbearers.

When used properly, trapping can be an alternative method to hunting for harvesting furbearers and an effective tool for wildlife management. Trappers should learn about the type of traps appropriate for the animal they're seeking and follow the trapper's code of ethics:

Obtain the landowner's permission.

Avoid setting traps in areas where domestic animals may be caught.

Set traps to capture the target animal in the most humane way possible.

Check traps at least once every 24 hours, preferably in the early morning.

Record trap locations accurately.

Identify all traps with waterproof name and address tags.

Use as much of the animal as possible. Dispose of animal carcasses properly.

Obtain all required licenses, tags, and permits. Since trapping laws vary by state, check the state's regulations before you go trapping.

Bodygrip traps catch the animal's entire body.

Foothold traps catch the animal when it steps on the trap.

Snares or cable devices use a loop of cable to catch a furbearer by the neck, body, or leg.

Traps can be set either on land or in or near the water. Some types of traps are designed to kill the trapped animal, and others are designed to capture the animal alive and unharmed (live-restraining devices).

The most common type of killing devices are bodygrip traps.

Live-restraining devices include foothold traps, enclosed foothold devices, cage traps, and some types of cable devices. With these traps, you are able to release non-target animals.

Some furbearers are found more often in or near water. For these animals, trappers use submersion trapping systems, which hold the animal underwater until it dies.